Visits to Historic Scotland properties are a great way to deliver Curriculum for Excellence providing opportunities for students to put First World War topics into context by exploring buildings, museums and objects. Visits enable pupils to re-enforce their learning by discovering their own local heritage and engaging with real peoples stories. Reflecting on these experiences can provide focus and lead to inspired creative responses.
Many of our sites reveal fascinating insights into the reality of war and its impact on the Scottish Nation. Fort George, Stirling Castle and Edinburgh Castle are home to important regimental museums and Edinburgh Castle also houses the National War Museum and Scotland’s National War Memorial.
Find more information about our sites and their links to the First World War
Support for learning
Historic Environment Scotland Learning Services can support your visit through our free educational visits scheme. You can also get assistance with transport costs by applying for a Heritage Education Travel Subsidy. For more information visit the Learning area of the Historic Environment Scotland website.
Historic Environment Scotland offer activities and resources to enhance your learning. Activities and resources currently on offer are listed below.
We are currently developing new resources to further support the years of commemoration so check back for regular updates or contact us to discuss your specific learning needs.
Activity - World War One Resource
Available at Site:
Stirling Castle
Suitable Levels:
Third – Senior Phase (S1–6)
Description:
Investigate the life of a soldier by handling artefacts and uniforms in our Resource Box.
Find out more by exploring the The Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders Regimental Museum and Stirling Castle.
Download the learning resource to support your visit.
To check availability and for information on booking a visit or activity contact Learning Services on 0131 652 8155/8156 or at learning@hes.scot or visit the Historic Environment Scotland website.
National Museums Scotland offer First World War learning resources at the National War Museum, Edinburgh Castle. Visit the NMS website for more information.
Further related imagery can be found via SCRAN.
WWI Commemorative Programme - Battlefield School Visits
Historic Environment Scotland manages this initiative as part of the Scottish Government’s five year WWI Commemorative programme. Secondary schools in Scotland are eligible to apply for a subsidy to participate in WWI Western Front battlefield tours.
The subsidy provides assistance with associated costs supporting pupils to develop a deeper understanding of the causes and consequences of the First World War and its impact on people’s lives.
Information on how to apply and full terms and conditions can be found on our website.